Things to Do on Ross Island (Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep), Port Blair

Just a short boat ride from Port Blair, Ross Island—officially renamed Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep—is a hauntingly beautiful slice of history wrapped in emerald forests and lapped by turquoise waters. Once the administrative headquarters of the British in the Andamans, today it is a serene heritage park of banyan-draped ruins, wildlife, and sea views. Here’s a detailed guide to make the most of your visit.

Why Visit

• History comes alive: Explore atmospheric ruins from the British era and World War II.
• Easy half-day trip: Only 10–15 minutes by boat from Port Blair.
• Photo paradise: Roots engulfing brick walls, sun-dappled trails, and sweeping harbor views.
• Close to North Bay: Conveniently paired with snorkeling or a sea-walk at North Bay Island.

Top Things to Do

1) Walk the Heritage Ruins Trail

Follow shady paths as enormous banyans reclaim colonial structures. Plaques and local guides help you imagine the “Paris of the East” as it once was.

Highlights on the trail

• Chief Commissioner’s House: Grand steps and skeletal walls with commanding views of the harbor.
• Church Ruins: Mossy arches and stained-glass frames now open to the sky—one of the island’s most photogenic corners.
• Clubhouse and Ballroom: Echoes of soirées and social life during the Raj.
• Hospital, Printing Press, and Bakery: Daily life remnants that add texture to the story of the settlement.
• Japanese Bunkers and Defense Installations: Stark WWII-era reminders dotting the shoreline and ridges.

2) Visit the Smritika Museum

Maintained with naval support, this small museum typically showcases archival photos, artifacts, and narratives of the island’s rise, earthquake damage, Japanese occupation, and decline. Check onsite for current opening hours.

3) Seek Out Wildlife

• Spotted deer and peacocks: Often seen grazing or strutting along lawns—observe quietly and do not feed.
• Birding: Look for kingfishers, herons, and raptors over the channel.
• Shade-loving flora: Giant banyans, ferns, and tropical flowers interfuse with the ruins, especially striking after a light rain.

4) Catch the Panoramas

Multiple viewpoints frame Port Blair’s skyline, anchored ships, and the lighthouse at nearby North Bay across the water. Early morning and late afternoon light are sublime.

5) Experience the Light & Sound Show (When Operational)

Subject to schedule, weather, and maintenance, the evening show narrates layered histories—from indigenous heritage to the colonial era and WWII. Check the latest timings and availability in Port Blair before you go.

6) Relax on Lawns and Seafront Benches

After your walk, unwind on manicured lawns by the jetty. Note that swimming is not permitted due to currents and safety protocols.

Pair It With: Classic Half-Day Combo

Many visitors combine Ross Island with North Bay Island the same day. Do the heritage walk at Ross in the cool morning and head to North Bay for snorkeling, glass-bottom boat rides, or sea-walk experiences post-lunch.

Practical Information

How to Reach

• Boat Jetty: Regular boats depart from Aberdeen Jetty/Water Sports Complex area in Port Blair.
• Duration: 10–15 minutes one way.
• Tickets: Government and private ferries operate; buy at the counter or via authorized tour desks. Seats can fill up in high season—book early.

Timings and Entry

• Visiting hours: Typically morning to late afternoon; last return boats are usually around 4–5 pm.
• Entry fee: A nominal island entry fee is usually applicable; separate fees may apply for cameras and battery-cart rides.
• Important: Fees and schedules change—confirm same day at the jetty or with your operator.

Best Time to Visit

• October to April: Pleasant weather and calmer seas.
• Midday heat: Go early or later in the afternoon; carry water and sun protection year-round.

What to Wear and Carry

• Light, breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
• Hat, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle.
• Rain cover in monsoon; a small torch can help in darker ruins late in the day.

Facilities and Accessibility

• Facilities: Basic restrooms near the jetty; limited snack kiosks; no ATMs.
• Mobility: Paths are uneven with roots and steps; battery-operated carts are often available for seniors or those with limited mobility (pay per seat).
• Network: Mobile coverage can be patchy.

Safety and Etiquette

• Wildlife: Do not feed deer, peacocks, or monkeys; keep food sealed and a respectful distance.
• Restricted areas: Parts of the island are under naval jurisdiction—follow signs and instructions.
• No swimming: For your safety, avoid entering the water.
• Drones: Use only with proper permission from authorities.

Photography Tips

• Golden hours: Early morning or late afternoon for gentle light through banyan canopies.
• Lenses: Wide-angle for immersive ruins; a short telephoto for wildlife without disturbing them.
• Compositions: Frame root-veined walls, archways, and leading paths; include human scale sparingly for context.
• Weather: Post-rain sheen intensifies colors—carry a microfiber cloth to keep lenses dry.

Responsible Travel

• Carry back all trash; minimize plastic. Many islands enforce bans on single-use plastics.
• Stick to marked trails to protect fragile roots and ground cover.
• Respect the island’s layered history and memorial sites.

A Short Historical Snapshot

Ross Island rose to prominence after 1858 as the British administrative seat for the Andamans. Grand homes, clubs, and services stood here until natural calamities and wartime occupation altered its fate. Japanese forces held the island during World War II, and the broader archipelago is tied to the 1943 visit of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. In honor of this legacy, Ross Island was renamed Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep in 2018.

Suggested 3–4 Hour Itinerary

1. 08:30 — Boat from Port Blair to Ross Island.
2. 08:45 — Start the heritage walk: Chief Commissioner’s House → Church ruins → Bakery/Printing Press → Japanese bunkers.
3. 10:45 — Visit Smritika Museum; relax on the lawns.
4. 11:30–12:00 — Return boat to Port Blair or continue to North Bay (if booked as a combo).

Quick FAQs

How long do I need on the island?

Plan for 2–3 hours to comfortably walk the main loop, visit the museum, and enjoy the views.

Are guided tours available?

Yes. Boat operators and local guides offer on-island guided walks. You can also explore independently using posted signs.

Can I buy food on the island?

Expect only basic snacks and beverages. It’s best to eat before/after and carry a water bottle.

Is the Light & Sound Show guaranteed?

No. It runs based on maintenance, weather, and seasonal scheduling. Confirm at the jetty or with your hotel/tour operator.

Any permits needed?

Carry a government-issued photo ID. Standard day visits from Port Blair generally don’t require special permits, but rules can change—check locally if unsure.

Final Tips

• Catch the first morning boat for cooler temperatures and quieter trails.
• If traveling with kids or seniors, consider booking a battery-cart tour on arrival.
• Combine with North Bay for a balanced day of history and water activities.

Ross Island (Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep) is less about ticking sights and more about lingering among stories—let the banyans, bricks, and sea breeze do the rest.